11 Delicious Homemade KFC Recipes to Try at Home

Craving that crispy, finger-lickin' goodness of KFC right at home? You’re in the right spot! These homemade recipes capture the essence of your favorite fried chicken, complete with all the seasonings and techniques that make it irresistible. Get ready to whip up some deliciousness that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Southern-Style Corn on the Cob

Southern-Style Corn on the Cob is a classic side dish that's both simple and delicious. With its sweet, juicy kernels and a touch of butter, this dish captures the essence of summer barbecues and family gatherings. Whether grilled, boiled, or roasted, it's a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with fried chicken or any hearty meal.

This recipe is easy to whip up and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Just a few steps and you'll have a tasty side that will have everyone reaching for more!

Ingredients

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Optional: Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Corn: Husk the corn and remove all the silk. Rinse the ears under cold water to clean them.
2. Boil or Grill: For boiling, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the corn and cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender. For grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until slightly charred.
3. Add Butter and Season: Once cooked, remove the corn from the heat. Spread softened butter over each ear while they are still hot. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Transfer the corn to a serving platter and, if desired, garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm and enjoy!

Flavorful Mashed Potatoes with Gravy

Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with any meal. This recipe creates creamy and smooth potatoes topped with rich, savory gravy that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. It’s an easy dish to whip up, making it a go-to side for family dinners or gatherings.

The key to achieving the perfect mashed potatoes lies in the right balance of butter, cream, and seasoning. You'll love how the buttery flavor blends with the savory gravy, turning an ordinary meal into something special. Let’s get right to it!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups beef or chicken gravy

Instructions

1. Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, add the chopped potatoes and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
2. Mash the Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
3. Heat the Gravy: In a saucepan, heat the gravy over medium heat until warmed through.
4. Serve: Spoon the mashed potatoes onto a plate and generously drizzle with warm gravy. Enjoy!

Buttermilk Biscuits Fresh from the Oven

Homemade buttermilk biscuits are fluffy, buttery, and simply irresistible. They make a perfect side for fried chicken or can be enjoyed on their own with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey. The best part? They are surprisingly easy to make! With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.

The secret to achieving that flaky texture lies in the cold butter and buttermilk, which create steam as they bake. The biscuits rise beautifully and have a delightful golden-brown crust that adds to their charm. Whether it's for breakfast or a comforting dinner, these biscuits will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup buttermilk

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it in until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined. Do not overmix!
5. On a floured surface, turn the dough out and gently knead it a few times until it holds together.
6. Pat the dough into a thickness of about 1 inch and use a biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits.
7. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Pickles

This Spicy Chicken Sandwich brings a burst of flavor that will satisfy your cravings. With crispy, seasoned chicken and a refreshing crunch from pickles, it's a delightful combination that hits all the right notes. The sandwich is simple to make, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

You'll enjoy the balance of heat and crunch, topped with crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless chicken thighs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 4 sesame seed burger buns
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 1/2 cup dill pickles

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
2. Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, mix flour, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge Chicken: Remove chicken from the buttermilk and coat each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture.
4. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
5. Assemble the Sandwich: Toast the burger buns lightly. On the bottom half, layer shredded lettuce, slices of tomato, fried chicken, and pickles. Top with the other half of the bun.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your spicy chicken sandwich hot, and enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness!

Sweet and Tangy Pickles

Sweet and tangy pickles are the perfect addition to any meal, bringing a burst of flavor that ties together savory dishes beautifully. These pickles strike a delightful balance between sweetness and a hint of tang, making them an enjoyable side or topping for sandwiches, burgers, or salads. Plus, making them is quite simple, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can adjust the sweetness or tanginess to match your taste. A little bit of spice can also be added for those who enjoy a kick. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe will make pickling a fun and rewarding experience.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cucumbers, sliced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon dill seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color)
• 2 cloves garlic, sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Start by slicing the cucumbers into spears or rounds, depending on your preference. Place them in a large bowl.
2. Make the Brine: In a saucepan, combine sugar, vinegar, water, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Add Spices: Once boiling, add mustard seeds, dill seeds, turmeric, and sliced garlic. Allow the brine to simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Combine: Pour the hot brine over the cucumbers in the bowl, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and let it cool to room temperature.
5. Chill: Transfer the pickles to a clean jar, seal it, and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying. The flavors will deepen as they sit!

Classic Coleslaw with a Creamy Dressing

This classic coleslaw is a perfect side dish that brings a crunchy texture and refreshing taste to any meal. With its vibrant blend of cabbage and carrots coated in a creamy dressing, it's both delicious and simple to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for picnics or family dinners.

The creamy dressing adds a tangy richness that complements the crisp vegetables beautifully. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste by adding ingredients like apples or raisins for a slightly sweeter twist. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup carrots, grated
• 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, grated carrots, red cabbage, and chopped green onions.
2. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Chill: Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve: Give it a good stir before serving and enjoy this crunchy and creamy side dish!

Homemade Macaroni and Cheese

Homemade macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that's creamy, cheesy, and downright delicious. This dish brings together perfectly cooked elbow macaroni with a rich cheese sauce that melts in your mouth. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this family favorite in no time, making it an easy choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

The combination of flavors and textures makes every bite satisfying. It's creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crunchy layer that adds the perfect contrast. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, you can't go wrong with this homemade version. It’s comfort food at its best!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
3. Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated.
4. Add Topping: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly on top.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade macaroni and cheese!

Crispy Fried Chicken with Secret Herbs and Spices

This homemade crispy fried chicken is a delicious take on a classic favorite. With its golden-brown crust and juicy interior, it's sure to be a hit at any meal. The secret blend of herbs and spices gives it a flavor that's both comforting and exciting.

Making this chicken is quite simple, even for beginners! You'll be surprised at how easily you can recreate that famous taste right in your kitchen. Just follow the steps below to have your own bucket of crispy goodness!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs
• 4 chicken drumsticks
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces and buttermilk. Make sure they are fully submerged and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
2. Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, thyme, and salt. This will be your crispy coating.
3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Shake off any excess flour.
4. Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there's enough oil to fully submerge the chicken.
5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, about 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Drain and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite sides!

Savory Potato Wedges with Dipping Sauce

These savory potato wedges are the perfect side dish or snack to satisfy your cravings. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they offer a delicious taste that pairs beautifully with your favorite dipping sauce.

Making these wedges is simple and fun, and you can customize the seasoning to fit your tastes. Whether you’re enjoying them with friends or indulging in a cozy night in, these wedges are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 4 medium potatoes, washed and cut into wedges
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Arrange the wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve hot with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.

Refreshing Lemonade with Fresh Mint

This refreshing lemonade is a perfect blend of tart and sweet with a hint of mint, making it an ideal drink to complement any meal, especially a homemade KFC feast. It's incredibly simple to make, requiring just a few fresh ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. The mint adds a unique twist, elevating a classic drink into something special.

Perfect for sunny days or any time you need a cool drink, this lemonade is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're serving it at a barbecue or enjoying it on your porch, it's a delightful way to stay refreshed.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• Lemon slices for garnish
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Make the Mint Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine sugar and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Add the mint leaves and remove from heat. Let it steep for about 10 minutes, then strain and cool.
2. Mix the Lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice, cooled mint syrup, and the remaining 3 cups of water. Stir well to mix.
3. Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the lemonade over. Garnish with lemon slices and extra mint leaves if desired.

Decadent Chocolate Cake for Dessert

This homemade chocolate cake is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a hearty meal. Rich and fudgy, it's layered with a smooth chocolate frosting that melts in your mouth. Simple to whip up, it’s ideal for gatherings, birthdays, or just a cozy night in.

Not only does this cake look stunning, but it also delivers an explosion of chocolate flavor with each bite. Even if you're not an experienced baker, this recipe is straightforward, so you can impress your friends and family with minimal effort!

Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup unsweetened chocolate frosting (store-bought or homemade)
• Sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined. Gradually stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
6. Once cooled, spread frosting over the top of one cake layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides. Finish with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.